Molecular Hydrogen as a Regulator of Mitochondrial Quality Control and Metabolic Reprogramming

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Molecular Medicine

Background:

• The role of molecular hydrogen (H2) in biological systems is increasingly recognized beyond its antioxidant properties.
• Emerging evidence suggests H2 influences cellular processes relevant to various diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and integrate evidence on molecular hydrogen's effects in metabolic diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer.
• To focus on H2's impact on mitochondrial quality control and metabolic reprogramming.

Main Methods:

• Systematic integration of basic, preclinical, and preliminary clinical research findings.
• Analysis of H2's modulation of key cellular signaling pathways and mitochondrial dynamics.

Main Results:

• Molecular hydrogen reshapes redox homeostasis and optimizes mitochondrial function through biogenesis, dynamics, and mitophagy.
• H2 modulates signaling pathways like AMPK/Sirtuins, PGC-1α, and PPARα, influencing glucose and lipid metabolism.
• Evidence supports H2 as a network regulator linking redox balance, mitochondrial health, and metabolic adaptation.

Conclusions:

• Molecular hydrogen demonstrates significant therapeutic potential in metabolic diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer.
• H2's effects are mediated by its influence on mitochondrial quality control and metabolic reprogramming.
• Further research is needed to clarify H2's upstream mechanisms and context-dependent effects.